Zoning amendments, Super Wal-Mart progress discussed – Desert Dispatch

By Paola Baker Staff Writer

BARSTOW The Planning Commission discussed new zoning amendments, the progress of the Super Wal-Mart project and the status of the Barstow Area Center for Entrepreneurs during their meeting on Monday night.

The commissioners voted to continue a public hearing on a conditional use permit issued to the Barstow Area Center for Entrepreneurs. According to city records, the continuance was requested to give staff additional time to review the conditions of the project.

Citing technical difficulties, Planning and Environmental Services Administrator Jennifer Riley requested additional time to submit the report on the project. The center, established by Barstow businessman Paul Courtney, boasts classrooms, a computer center and several office spaces for businesses, according to a previous Desert Dispatch report.

Courtney told the Daily Press hes been going through trials and tribulations brought on by traffic concerns near the center that have hindered the centers progress.

Im truly puzzled by (the citys) reaction, Courtney said. This project hasnt been embraced like I thought it would.

With a motion to continue from Commissioner Bea Lint, seconded by Commissioner Marilyn Dyer-Kruse, the vote to continue the public hearing to May 8 was passed unanimously.

The rest of Mondays agenda included the addition of a new zoning amendment to the citys municipal code and a discussion on the citys annual report on the status of the general plan and housing element, which was sent to the Barstow City Council for review. The amendment was implemented to comply with changes to state laws regarding accessory dwelling units, also known as granny flats.

A traffic and safety update was presented, with consulting city engineer Brad Merrell discussed the progress of the Super Wal-Mart project. Merrell said construction crews began work on curbs and gutters in the area this week, while paving on E. Main Street is expected to start next week.

Hopefully keeping my fingers crossed E. Main Street will be all done soon, Merrell said.

The Planning Commission will meet again on May 8. Visit http://www.barstowca.org for more details.

Paola Baker may be reached at 760-955-5332 or PBaker@VVDailyPress.com. Follow her on Twitter at @DP_PaolaBaker.

Continued here:

Zoning amendments, Super Wal-Mart progress discussed - Desert Dispatch